Santa Fe, N.M.—May 28, 2015—Santa Fe University of Art and Design (SFUAD) contributing faculty member Marsha Scarbrough’s newest memoir, Honey in the River, has been published by Changemakers Books, an imprint of John Hunt Publishing. A publication event, open to the public, will take place on Friday, May 29 at 6 p.m. in SFUAD’s Fogelson Library and will include a reading by the author, music by Agalu Nigerian drumming troupe, light refreshments and a book signing.

In her quest for spiritual wisdom, Scarbrough studied West African shamanism with a Nigerian ceremonial leader and master drummer, an experience that was followed by romance and eventually betrayal. Scarbrough’s memoir of that romance, Honey in the River, explores the contemporary relevance of ancient African wisdom teachings. Scarbrough weaves the mythology and metaphysics of Ifa, the indigenous religion of the Yoruba people of West Africa, throughout her fast-paced tale which combines spiritual text with descriptions of her experiences in rhythm, dance and deep trance. As she blends archetypal drama and epic soap opera, the author reveals and befriends her personal shadow.

According to Tiziana Stupia, author of Meeting Shiva, “Apart from being a riveting read, Honey in the River is a worthy investigation into polygamy, spirituality, cultural differences and co-dependent relationships. I enjoyed the wonderfully portrayed characters and profound reflections of the author which will no doubt help many women in a similar situation to heal and see past the glamour that so often surrounds spiritual leaders.”

In addition to her latest memoir, Scarbrough is also the author of Medicine Dance: One woman’s healing journey into the world of Native American sweatlodges, drumming meditations and dance. A University of Southern California graduate and an award-winning journalist, Scarbrough has diverse experiences in training that range from dance therapy, Buddhism and martial arts, to Native American and West African religions and spirituality. She has also worked in film production for major feature films and prime time television for almost 20 years. A native Californian, Scarbrough currently lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico and teaches English to international students at Santa Fe University of Art and Design.